Reed Construction Data

International Powered Access Federation (IPAF)

The IPAF Safety Zone will feature a fast-moving live demonstration on the dangers of not wearing a harness and the correct way to wear one, using a range of equipment from exhibiting members. This 15-minute show will run at regular intervals throughout the show day. IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation, is a not-for-profit members’ organization that promotes the safe and effective use of powered access worldwide. AWPT, Aerial Work Platform Training, is the North American subsidiary of IPAF.

In many parts of the U.S. (and the rest of the world), aerial platform operators do not bother to use harnesses on boom type platforms, leading to completely unnecessary deaths. AWPT and IPAF are taking their “Click It!” campaign to Conexpo to highlight the need to wear harnesses in boom type aerial work platforms and to make this safe way of working at height even safer. Operators of boom type platforms should wear a full body harness with a short restraint lanyard attached to a suitable anchor point because of the danger of being catapulted out of a boom if it is struck by a vehicle (or another piece of equipment) or is affected by ground subsidence.

Thousands of stickers in six languages have been printed and AWPT aims to get them on every boom in the US. Stickers, posters and technical guidance note AWPT H1, which gives practical advice on when and how to wear harnesses and which is endorsed by the Scaffold Industry Association, will be available.